Long Term Sequels Of Intramedullary Nailing In Childhood Femoral Shaft Fractures.

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate the impact on bone growth of intramedullary nailing of femur using Kuntscher technique in childhood. ¦ Methods: 18 patients who had undergone Kuntscher technique intramedullary nailing were analyzed as they have grown to adulthood. Growth of each lower limb was compared using predefined clinical and radiological parameters.Results: Patient ages at the time of evaluation, ranged from 21 to 30 years and the follow up length 12 to 16 years. Clinical examination noted 10 normal patients and 8 patients with anomalies, among them 6 were less than 12 years old at the time of intervention. Six¶ patients had lengthening of the operated limb; 4 patients had atrophy¦¦ of the thigh of the operated limb and¦¦¶ 7 patients had coxa valga of operated limb. All patients with coxa valga had undergone the intervention before the age of 12 years.Conclusion: intramedullary nailing using Kuntschter technique to treat femoral fractures in children ¦of feoo may have some long terms sequels. Therefore it is advisable not to use this technique in children less than 12 years old.